Ola Källenius Reveals the Future of Mercedes: Meet the 2026 CLA

Mercedes-Benz Chief Executive Officer Ola Källenius is not just talking about the future—he is building it. At a recent event, he introduced the all-new 2026 CLA, calling it the most efficient vehicle Mercedes-Benz has ever created. The all-electric model is not just another step in their electrification strategy—it is a clear message that sustainability, innovation, and customer experience can all live under one roof.

With production taking place at the highly optimized Rastatt plant in Germany, energy consumption for the new CLA has been reduced by 15 percent compared to the previous model. Half of the energy used in Mercedes-Benz’s manufacturing facilities now comes from renewable sources, and by the end of 2024, the company will have slashed its own production-related carbon dioxide emissions by 75 percent. These are not just internal targets—they are bold, measurable changes already in motion.

Ola Källenius emphasized how the 2026 CLA represents a leap forward in realizing Mercedes-Benz’s Ambition 2039 goal, which centers on carbon neutrality across the value chain within the next 15 years. He shared that the CLA sets new standards for charging speeds and efficiency, helping customers experience what electric mobility is truly meant to be—seamless, fast, and responsible.

The 2026 CLA also reflects the company’s growing focus on circularity. By designing vehicles with sustainable materials and improved recyclability, Mercedes-Benz is closing the loop and reducing waste at every stage. In fact, waste for disposal across European plants has been brought down to just 250 grams per vehicle—a record low.

Mercedes-Benz is also investing in the people behind the vehicles. As part of their “Sustainable People Plan,” the company has extended job guarantees in Germany until the end of 2034. There is a strong commitment to helping employees adapt through training programs and creating a supportive, inclusive workplace.

Ola Källenius made it clear: Mercedes-Benz is not slowing down. With the 2026 CLA, they are pushing boundaries—not just in terms of design and performance, but in how cars are built, powered, and experienced.